Why Are There So Many Mosquitoes?

Thousands of people are killed each year by mosquitoes. They carry dangerous viruses, such as the Zika virus, and can transmit diseases such as yellow fever.

There are over 200 species of mosquitoes in the United States. Each species is unique and geographically diverse. Some can withstand cold weather, while others will die out in winter. There are also several species that live in tropical climates.

Aedes aegypti, known as the yellow fever mosquito, is one of the most harmful and disease-spreading mosquitoes. It is also difficult to control. In fact, it is the most common vector of dengue, which is a serious global health problem.

The Asian tiger mosquito, or Aedes albopictus, is found in subtropical and tropical regions. It is also known to cause chikungunya and yellow fever. Its range extends into the southern and eastern United States.

Aedes aegypti is harder to control than most other mosquitoes. Its larvae need a source of water and a temperature above the threshold.

Rainfall has a large effect on mosquito reproduction. It increases in summer and decreases in autumn.

In addition to its role in transmitting disease, mosquitoes are important for pollination. Some flowering plants require a male population of Aedes mosquitoes to produce pollen. The pollen sticks to the mosquito’s proboscis and transfers to the next flower.

In order to survive, mosquitoes must compete with other species. Their instinct to survive drives them to reproduce more efficiently. They lay eggs on still water and in puddles.